University 
East-West Medical College

Current Year 
Fifth

Medical Specialty Interested in 
Orthopedics/Emergency Medicine

One Word that Describes You 
Kind

Most Intriguing subject in Medical School 
Forensic Medicine

What was your path to Medical School like?

I finished my O'Levels in Aminiya School, and then moved to Malaysia to complete my A'Levels in International Islamic School. Afterwards, I came back to Male' and worked in ADK Hospital for 8 months.

I went to Malaysia again to complete a Foundation program (Pre-med course) in Mahsa University. The A'Levels I completed there was 1.5 years, hence, I had to spend a year for an additional course. At first, I applied to a university in Ukraine, but due to some issues I could not go there. I then applied to Manipal College of Medical Sciences in Nepal, however, they require 2 continuous years of A'Levels, hence, I could not enroll there. 

I found out about Bangladesh through Stafford sir, who is a popular Biology teacher in the Maldives. He recommended an agent and I applied to my current university this way.

What was the biggest difference between your expectations of entering Med School when you were doing A'level, and the actual experience of being there?

I always had it in mind that Medical school is going to be hard. There was even a point in my life when I did not want to Medicine, because I thought it was impossible for me.

However, after coming here, that mindset changed a lot. It's not as hard as it seems, if you're really focused.

How is your daily routine like?

I've been maintaining a daily routine for some time now. I wake up at 4:30 - 5 am, and then I would perform prayers. Since, it's my final exams these days, I do not have to go to class everyday. We have exams every 2 or 3 days.

If I have an exam, I would revise until it's time for me to go to the campus. Afterwards, I would come back, have something to eat and resume my studies. Most of the day is spent studying to be honest. I try not to sleep during the day, since I would have a hard time falling asleep at night. 

I don't like to study at night so I stop revising by 7 pm. Before going to sleep, I love to watch something or do some other work. Latest by 10 pm, I would asleep.

What would you have done if you did not get into Medical School due to a circumstance?

I actually did not have a back-up plan. Medicine was something that my parents wanted a lot for me, and I was brought up with that mindset. 

If I did not get into Medical School, I would most probably pursue Psychology or have a creative business.

If you could be granted 3 wishes to make the world or society a better place, what would they be and why?

Everyone should be kind to one another
Everything related to health-care should be free 
Make the world a better place in all aspects

Name your favorite medical text book.  

Davidson's Principles & Practice of Medicine by Brian R. Walker, Nicki R. Colledge, Stuart H. Ralston & Ian D. Penman. 

Radiology in Medical Practice by ABM Abdullah.

What has been the best part about studying in your university?

My batch-mates. I get a lot of help from them, specially during the exams. There were many instances where I could not attend classes due to health issues. They make sure that I am up-to-date with the material and would also check-up on me.

Some of the teachers here also make Medical school a lot better for us. 

What is the most effective way to study in Medical School?

To be honest, it depends on the individual, because what works for me might not work for someone else.

Yet, the most important thing is to be present during lectures. The most amount of information you are retaining is when you're listening attentively in class. Whether I read notes or not, if I pay attention in class, it helps me a lot to learn.

Do you need High grades to become a decent doctor?

No you don't. What is important is the amount of clinical knowledge you have.

A person can read and memorize the textbook, and easily get full marks on an exam. However, if you don't know how to apply your knowledge in clinical practice, there is no use of what you studied. I see so many students around me who get good grades, yet when it comes to solving problems or identifying what it is, they find it difficult. This is because they are so reliable on the notes and what is in the textbook.

Finally, what is the one tip/advice you want to give to our readers?

I advocate and stand by this: Do not become a doctor if you want to become famous or have a high paying job. That is not the reason to become a doctor.

This field requires a lot of commitment, and you need to be focused and passionate about Medicine. Become a doctor if you genuinely want to help people.

Interested to join East-West Medical University? Ajfan has very kindly suggested that anyone could contact her through Email.

The My Medical Student Life series was created for the sole purpose of helping medical students and aspiring doctors on their journey to become a successful Maldivian Healthcare Professional. Have a suggestion, idea or question? Email us.

Advertisement

Related Articles

Recent Articles